UAE Passport Achieves Joint Second Place in Global Ranking with 187 Visa-Free Destinations
Here's what it means for you.
Enhanced passport strength can facilitate smoother international business and travel opportunities.
What happened
On April 14, 2026, the UAE passport was ranked the world's second most powerful by the Henley Passport Index.
The Context
- Strong Diplomatic Ties: The UAE's rise in passport strength reflects proactive diplomacy and strategic partnerships established since the 2010s.
- Significant Ascent: Climbing from 38th place in 2016 to joint 2nd in 2026, the UAE passport now offers access to 187 destinations, surpassing traditional powers like the UK and US.
- Economic Impact: This ranking boosts investor confidence and supports Dubai's role as a global business hub, easing travel for professionals and tourists alike.
The Number
— the number of visa-free or visa-on-arrival destinations accessible to UAE passport holders, underscoring the UAE's growing global connectivity.
Takeaway
As the UAE continues to strengthen its international ties, expect further enhancements in travel freedom that could benefit global professionals.
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UAE passport ranks No 2 most powerful in the world
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) passport has been ranked as the second most powerful passport in the world for 2026, reflecting a significant rise in the country's international standing and diplomatic efforts over the past decade. This ranking enhanc...
UAE-based newspaper covering Gulf politics, society, and international developments.
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UAE passport ranked world’s second most powerful in 2026
The UAE passport has been ranked as the world’s second most powerful in 2026, reflecting the country's strong international standing and the ease of travel it affords its citizens. This ranking highlights the UAE's diplomatic efforts and global engag...
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UAE passport ranked world’s second most powerful in 2026
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) passport has been ranked as the second most powerful passport in the world for 2026, reflecting its strong international standing and the ease of travel it provides to its holders. This ranking highlights the UAE's dipl...
Arabic-language UAE newspaper coverage focused on domestic affairs, public institutions, business, society, and regional developments.
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جواز السفر الإماراتي الأول أوسطياً والثاني عالمياً
The UAE passport has risen eight ranks to become the second strongest passport globally and the first in the Middle East, according to the Henley & Partners 2026 report. Holders of the UAE passport can visit 187 destinations without a visa, marking a...